Thursday, January 29, 2015

Beyond All Dreams Review + Kindle Giveaway!

Sweeping and Romantic Historical Drama from an Award-Winning Author Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across a baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. She is thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, but her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help. Luke Callahan was one of the nation's most powerful congressmen until his promising career became shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglement with a member of Congress. From the gilded halls of the Capitol, where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for themselves?

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Get a copy today!My Thoughts:
I loved the historical era. Spanish American war? I can sadly say that I'm not even sure I knew there WAS a Spanish American War. 'Beyond All Dreams' covers the interesting period of time leading right up to that short lived war. The fun facts that Camden provides led to a rabbit hole of facts, intrigue and history for me. And the setting? The LIBRARY OF CONGRESS?? Heck yeah! It was a delight to have one of the first women working in the library as our MC.

Luke was our male character. I loved that he was so gritty. Luke has a troubled past and a very rough family. But I love that he is determined to do what is right and make a change from his family's lifestyle. He made such a fun hero because he wasn't perfect, but he was trying so hard to be better.

Anna was cute, seemingly quiet and shy, but not afraid to stand her ground whenever needed. Her plight mostly stayed in the 'current' events of the book, which I appreciated. Seeing the era through her eyes was incredibly insightful. The world of quiet libraries, to dreary boarding houses, I actually learned a lot of REAL life history with her at the helm.

Was it memorable? The history is what will truly stick with me. Will it lead me to read more of the author's work? YES! I would love to see if I can find some more of Camden's work on Audible next month for my free audiobook. 4 stars and anyone who could use a quick dash of history mixed with an adorable romance should pick this one up. Stat!

Elizabeth is celebrating the release of Beyond All Dreams with a Kindle giveaway and Facebook party on February 17.